Entrepreneur Launch Pad

Our Entrepreneur Launch Pad program builds on the business skills taught in our Supper Club program and offers refugee women in-depth training and mentorship to launch their own catering businesses.

Ten women, who have been Supper Club chefs for years, went through the program in 2026 and launched their own registered businesses.

Graduates of the Entrepreneur Launch Pad Program:

Abida Nawabi Attazada - Feast & Flour

Fresh homemade Afghan meals and baked goods, made to order, available throughout Greater St. Louis.

Freshta Zary - Homemade Afghan Flavors

Authentic homemade Afghan meals made fresh to order for families, gatherings, and everyday dining throughout Greater St. Louis.

Lida Qhatai - Lida’s Kitchen

Authentic Afghan Flavors, Made with Love

Fatima Mosavi - Saffron Bakery

Tinnin Coulibaly - Tinnin’s Kitchen

Delicious African Cuisine

Arezoo Aryan - Kabul Bite

Authentic Afghan Cuisine

Arezo Sahel - Afghan Cuisine STL

Authentic homemade Afghan cuisine in Saint Louis. Serving traditional dishes, catering, desserts, and Afghan tea for every occasion.

Atefa Sediqi - Afghan Royal Restaurant

Samira Rasooli - Afghan Flavora

Ferooza Nasiri - Afghan Royalty Food

Partnerships

Our Entrepreneur Launchpad Program is made possible through a grant from the St. Louis County Port Authority, administered by the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership. Our Entrepreneur Launchpad brings together a team of partners to turn culinary talent into business ownership:

CORTEX | Entrepreneur Education & Mentorship

Cortex provides business education, practical tools, and mentorship through its Square One entrepreneur training program. The chefs are learning how to plan, manage, and grow their businesses—building a foundation for lasting success.

LESLIE HERNANDEZ | Business Mentor, Mama Pacha Sabor
Leslie brings firsthand experience building a food business rooted in family recipes and cultural traditions. As our business mentor, she guides the women through the steps of becoming business owners, offering practical advice, encouragement, and support as they establish their businesses.

SAYED | Technology Partner, Pamir Web

Sayed provides technology assistance to help these new businesses connect with customers. Through website and online business support, he helps the chefs showcase their food, share their stories, and build a digital presence.